The Ijaw People’s Development Initiative (IPDI) has absolved the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, of blame over the non-increment of stipends for beneficiaries, stating that such decisions lie solely with top federal authorities.
The group maintained that the review and approval of stipends for PAP delegates are beyond the powers of the programme’s administrator, noting that the process is exclusively handled by the Presidency, the Federal Ministry of Finance, the Budget Office, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC), the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the National Planning authorities, and the National Assembly’s appropriation committees.
In a statement issued by its National President, Comrade Ozobo Austin, IPDI described criticisms directed at Otuaro as misplaced and borne out of ignorance, stressing that stipend adjustments are tied to federal budgetary provisions and cannot be unilaterally effected by the PAP leadership.
According to the group, Otuaro’s role is limited to making proposals and advocating for improved welfare for beneficiaries, while final approval rests with the relevant government institutions.
“Let it be clearly stated that Dr Otuaro is not responsible for approving stipend increments. Attacks, blackmail and character assassination over issues outside his mandate are unacceptable and reflect a lack of understanding of government processes,” the statement read.
IPDI further disclosed that the PAP administrator has consistently shown commitment towards improving delegates’ welfare, recalling that he publicly supported stipend increments during an early stakeholders’ engagement held in Warri, Delta State.
The group also revealed that proposals for stipend review are already before the Presidency, expressing optimism that approval would be granted in due course.
Reiterating its position, IPDI urged stakeholders and beneficiaries to redirect their advocacy towards the appropriate authorities, particularly the Presidency and the Ministry of Finance, rather than blaming the PAP administrator.
It also called for patience and cooperation, emphasising that the process involves complex bureaucratic procedures requiring due diligence and multi-level approvals.
“Otuaro remains committed to the welfare of PAP beneficiaries and would welcome any approval that improves their conditions. Stakeholders must therefore engage constructively with the relevant authorities and avoid unnecessary attacks on individuals not vested with such powers,” the statement added.
